Crystal Lake have kicked their new chapter into gear with the release of their new track “Dystopia“. 2023 has been one of changes for the band. Back in 2022, vocalist Ryo Kinoshita revealed that he was to depart the band. The rest of the band then set to find a replacement via an open audition process. Thousands of incredible vocalists tried their hand, but one stood out from the rest. That was John Robert Centorrino, known for his work with The Last Ten Seconds Of Life. They premiered their new line-up in bludgeoning style back in June with the release of “Denial” and “Rebirth“. A two-track assault that hit like a boot to the temple, there was no better way to reintroduce yourself to the scene. Now, with “Dystopia”, Crystal Lake have dug their heels in and shown exactly why you should still be paying close attention to them.
The first thing to hit you about this new era of Crystal Lake is how they are making sure you are breathless from the get-go. Despite having melody at its core, “Dystopia” feels like a battering ram of energy and intensity. Break-neck drums, gruelling chords and a vocal display that could rip skin from bone, it’s a joyously heavy affair. Though below the surface, there are layers of glitching technology that hark back to the band’s stunning full-length Helix. It’s these little blips that help them stand above the clouds. That entraps you when the heaviness has faded away.
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It’s hard not to feel the hairs on the back of your neck stand on end whilst absorbing “Dystopia”. From not knowing what will happen to returning to the fold with a point to prove, this is an exciting time to be associated with Crystal Lake.
